The Saint-Véran Climat "La Bonnode" Zen AOC 2021 from La Soufrandière presents itself as an elegant, organically and biodynamically produced Mâconnais Chardonnay full of sensuality and creamy structure.
Bottler: Bret Brothers/La Soufrandière, 125 rue Aux Bourgeois, 71680 Vinzelles / France
In the glass
Colour
Pale golden yellow.
Nose
Citrus fruits, oranges, spring blossoms and lemon curd, underpinned with subtle herbal notes and wet chalk.
Palate
Silky and supple on the palate, notes of pale stone fruit, pear and pineapple, balanced by juicy acidity and a salty finish.
Character
An expressive, creamy white wine with fine tannic grip, great freshness and authentic purity of terroir.
Pairing
Marinated chicken with pineapple and coriander, green asparagus and pea tart, or vegetable and mushroom gratin with seafood.
Notes
A Demeter-certified wild-fermented Chardonnay from an east-facing single vineyard, aged for 17 months in wooden casks with minimal sulphur added (Zen cuvée).
Tasting note
Colour & Appearance
A pale shade of bright golden yellow gleams in the glass.
Nose
On the nose, this cuvée is remarkably supple, fresh and almost sensuous. Alongside fine notes of lemon, orange and delicate spring blossoms lies a chalky foundation. Nuances of smooth lemon curd and freshly picked herbs lend the aromatics a comforting texture.
Palate
On the palate, this Chardonnay impresses with silky texture and creamy composure. The clear fruit of lemon, ripe pear and a touch of pineapple is supported by a subtle tannic grip, whilst cool freshness ensures finesse.
Finish
The finish is reminiscent of refreshing sour sweets, paired with yellow-fruited sweetness that is immediately captured by piquant salinity and a crisp vein of acidity.
Terroir & Origin
The La Bonnode parcel extends at an altitude of 250 metres at the foot of the majestic Roche de Vergisson in the southern Mâconnais. Facing east, the 35-year-old vines grow on soils of calcareous marl and light clay, surrounded by protected ancient shrubs.
Grape Variety & Vinification
100% Chardonnay, hand-harvested at the end of September. After pressing whole bunches, spontaneous fermentation with indigenous yeasts follows. The wine matures over 17 months in large oak foudres as well as 228-litre pièces, including malolactic fermentation. In line with the domain’s biodynamic philosophy (Demeter certified), sulfur is used minimally (total sulfur 24 mg/l).
Food Pairings
An outstanding partner for chicken marinated in fresh pineapple with coriander, rice vinegar and rice. Equally delicious with a fine green asparagus tart with fresh peas and mint or a creamy vegetable and mushroom gratin with seafood.
Particularities
Thanks to the minimalist use of sulfur, the “Cuvée Zen” is noticeably silkier and more supple than the classic bottling from this site. Working strictly according to Demeter guidelines, the Bret brothers’ estate brings the pure nature of Saint-Véran into the glass.
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